Formation

Once initially approved by the Admissions Committee, candidates are required to participate in the Association's Year of Formation. All candidates attend the Day of Formation in Washington, D.C. This day-long orientation program, held in April, is designed to provide candidates an overview of the mission, history, spirituality, and works of the Order of Malta.

During a candidate's Year of Formation, he or she is required to participate in at least two of the Order's service projects and attend either two Masses or spiritual activities sponsored by the Association. Each candidate is assisted throughout the Year of Formation by their Sponsors and by a liaison assigned to them from the Formation Committee.

At the conclusion of the year, a "Formation Checklist" is signed by the candidate's Sponsors and Regional Hospitaller (local coordinator of activities). The checklist is then reviewed by the Formation Committee. If the candidate has fulfilled the requirements, the committee will recommend them to the Association's Board of Directors for final approval.

The admissions and formation process takes approximately 18 months. This allows time for the candidates to become fully acquainted with the Order and the Federal Association as well as with the commitment they are about to undertake as a members of the Order of Malta.